Question

How did the Portuguese influence Chinese trade during the 15th and 16th centuries?

Answer 1

The Portuguese in 1517 became the first Europeans to arrive in China in the form of both formal embassy and trading pirates. They began direct trade in China by sea due to their improved marine technology in the 15th and 16th Century. They were the major exporters of Chinese blue and white wares throughout the 16th Century thus were the first Europeans to be influenced by these porcelains. The Portuguese established themselves as significant actors in the trade or exchange of goods between Asian countries and became involved in trade between China and Japan, therefore, earning money to purchase products needed in Europe.